Brothers Behind Bars for Running Class A Drug Empire
Sadik Saleem, 42, from Heaton, has been locked up for his role in a cocaine and heroin supply ring. He was sentenced at Bradford Crown Court on 19 August after admitting to conspiracy to supply class A drugs. His 38-year-old brother Naim, also from Toller Lane, was jailed last month for four-and-a-half years after pleading guilty to similar charges.
Drug Empire Operated from Home Street
Sadik handled the dangerous drugs, carefully preparing and packaging cocaine and heroin. Meanwhile, Naim masterminded the distribution, recruiting runners to sell on the streets. This duo ran a ruthless drugs network, exploiting vulnerable people and expanding their reach across towns.
Police Nail Brothers with DNA Evidence
In June 2018, police stopped a car in Skipton and found 70 wraps of cocaine and heroin. DNA tests linked the packaging directly to Sadik Saleem. A year later, a police crackdown uncovered more drug wraps coated with his DNA. Their operation was exposed following a joint investigation by West Yorkshire and North Yorkshire Police.
County Lines Drug Dealing—A Growing Threat
County lines gangs recruit children and addicts as drug runners to control smaller towns. They use threats and violence to keep their network under control. The Saleem brothers’ runners have also been sentenced, though with suspended terms, as police continue to target this dangerous crime.
Police Call on Public to Report Drug Crime
Drug dealing remains a top priority for North Yorkshire Police. Authorities urge the public to come forward with any information about drug activity in their communities. Together, they aim to crack down on these harmful criminal networks and keep neighbourhoods safe.
